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AAP
AAP
Sport
Scott Bailey and Fraser Barton

Finch retires from ODIs, to play on in T20

Aaron Finch plans to fight on into next month's Twenty20 World Cup, despite the white-ball captain announcing his retirement from one-day cricket.

Out of form and with his spot in the side in doubt, Finch confirmed Sunday's ODI against New Zealand would be his last in the format for Australia.

However he still intends to lead Australia's charge in the T20 format, with Cricket Australia confirming he plans to lead the country in next month's world title defence.

"It has been a fantastic ride with some incredible memories," Finch said.

"I have been extremely fortunate to be a part of some brilliant one-day sides. Equally, I have been blessed by all those I have played with and the many people behind the scenes.

"It is time now to give a new leader the best possible opportunity to prepare for and win the next World Cup.

"I thank all of those who have helped and supported my journey to this point."

Australia's leader since 2020, Finch has played 145 matches - 54 as captain.

One of the most damaging opening batters in the world when at his best, he has made over 5000 runs in the format and averaged close to 40.

But those numbers have taken a significant hit in recent years, averaging 14.6 in 2022 while failing to pass 20 in his last seven innings.

Ultimately, his call to retire came after his fifth duck across all formats this year.

He debuted against Sri Lanka in 2013 with his 17 centuries fourth only to Ricky Ponting, David Warner and Mark Waugh in one-day cricket for Australia.

The right-hander played a key part in Australia's 2015 one-day World Cup success before leading the team to the semi-finals in the 2019 tournament.

Finch's decision leaves Australia searching for a new one-day captain ahead of next year's World Cup, with Test skipper Pat Cummins previously indicating he does not want to lead the side.

"On behalf of Australian Cricket, I would like to congratulate Aaron on his vast contribution as captain of the Australian men's ODI team and as a wonderful exponent of the 50-over format," Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley said.

"Aaron is an enormously gifted and determined player whose outstanding deeds with the bat have been matched by his strong and inspiring leadership.

"His decision to step aside from the ODI captaincy now is typical of his selfless approach to the game.

"I'm delighted Aaron will lead the Australian team into the forthcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup where his leadership, experience and tactical nous will be integral to the defence of our T20 World Cup title on home soil."

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